Photovoltaic panel power characteristics test standard

What is a standard test condition for a photovoltaic solar panel?

The standard test conditions, or STC of a photovoltaic solar panel is used by a manufacturer as a way to define the electrical performance and characteristics of their photovoltaic panels and modules. We know that photovoltaic (PV) panels and modules are semiconductor devices that generate an electrical output when exposed directly to sunlight.

What is the power rating of a photovoltaic panel?

For example, 100 WDC. This power rating and therefore the performance of a photovoltaic panel is presented according to defined international testing criteria. Known as (STC). Then when a panel is advertised as having a capacity of say, 400 Watts-peak, this is the power output it will produce under STC conditions.

What are the performance ratings of PV modules?

Performance ratings of PV modules are measured under standard test conditions (STC) of 1,000 W/m2 of sunlight and 25°C cell temperature. In practice, however, the intensity of sunlight is usually less than 1,000 W/m2, and the cell temperature is typically hotter than 25°C.

What are the characteristics of a solar panel?

The most important characteristic of any solar panel is its power output and photovoltaic solar panels are available in a wide range of power outputs ranging from a few watts to more than 400 watts for the bigger panels and/or modules.

What voltage is required for a PV system?

This standard applies to roof-mounted, ground-mounted, pole-mounted, or integrated-mounted modules used in a PV system with a voltage of 1000 volts or less. The National Electrical Code applies from an installation standpoint.

What are nominal operating conditions (NOC) of a photovoltaic panel?

Nominal Operating Conditions (NOC) of a photovoltaic panel is a set of common reference conditions designed to simulate the panel for actual outdoor measurements. They try to combine the irradiance level of a clear summer day, with a panel temperature of a clear winter day and the light spectrum of a clear spring day.